Does Black Beans & Rice contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains gluten due to the enriched wheat flour and malted barley flour. It does not contain dairy ingredients.

Is Black Beans & Rice good for weight loss?

It can be. It is relatively low in fat and high in fiber, which promotes satiety. However, portion control is key as rice is calorie-dense.

Where can I buy Black Beans & Rice?

This product is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online through Amazon.

Is Black Beans & Rice safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for children. It contains no caffeine or added sugar, though the sodium content should be monitored depending on the child's age.

Is Black Beans & Rice Kosher?

Yes, Black Beans & Rice is kosher. Based on a detailed analysis of the ingredient label, there are no animal-derived derivatives, alcohol-based flavorings, or non-kosher additives present. This side dish appears to meet the strict requirements for kosher certification, provided it is prepared in a kosher-compliant facility.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food like this is kosher, we look beyond the main components and scrutinize the additives. The base of this dish consists of enriched long grain parboiled rice and black beans. Both are inherently kosher and pareve (neutral). The complexity usually lies in the flavorings and processing aids.

First, let's look at the savory flavor enhancers. The list includes yeast extract, onion, garlic, and spices. Yeast extract is a standard flavoring derived from yeast cells, typically from sugar beet molasses or yeast grown on grain, and is universally considered kosher. Similarly, the tamari soy sauce listed is a concern for some because soy sauce is traditionally fermented with wheat. However, tamari is a byproduct of miso that is often wheat-free or contains very little wheat. Crucially, soy sauce is a vegetable product, making it pareve.

Finally, we must check the starches and anti-caking agents. The presence of malted barley flour and enriched wheat flour confirms the presence of gluten, but since these are grain-based, they do not render the product non-kosher. The citric acid used for acidity is derived from fungal fermentation, which is acceptable. There are no flags for gelatin (animal bone), rennet (dairy enzymes), or shellac (insect-derived coating). Therefore, chemically speaking, the ingredients are compliant.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this product offers a solid balance of macronutrients. The primary ingredients are rice and beans, which provide a complete protein profile when eaten together. This is excellent for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing protein intake.

Regarding carbohydrates, the rice provides the bulk of the calories, but the black beans add significant dietary fiber. This fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, making it a better option than plain white rice. The sodium content is moderate due to the salt and tamari soy sauce, but it isn't excessively high compared to other boxed sides. It fits well within a standard diet, provided you watch your total daily sodium intake.